PAD must choose its battles

The problem is that, because the group they oppose keeps getting elected and consolidates power, the PAD basically has to be running a continuing protest. Even PAD supporters cannot go on and on like this for years. At Lumpini Park you can see how small their crowd is.

The PAD’s founders have to choose their moments. The PAD and the Democrat Party have different roles. The Democrats are is supposed to oppose legislation such as the amnesty bill in Parliament, which is what they are doing, not very effectively because they do not have the best people, and those they have lack courage. The PAD educates voters and provides crucial information on key issues through Sondhi and ASTV.

It is hard to disagree with this view expressed in this quote: “The PAD, former allies of the Democrats, said the party was partially responsible for its problems in Thai politics and was an obstacle to the overhaul.” The Democrats made no major changes while in office. However, PAD leaders have to accept that the Democrats are considered to be honest administrators and have been winning crucial elections such as the Bangkok governorship and the Don Muang constituency.

This shows that voters are not stupid and do not like what the government is doing. This includes the amnesty bill, Akeyuth’s murder, the rice scheme and financial policies that have put Thailand into recession. The finance minister can protest all he wants, but Thailand is in recession.

Sondhi and Chamlong have repeatedly made great sacrifices for the country. In Sondhi’s case, he narrowly survived an assassination attempt, which has had zero follow-up. These patriots are getting older and cannot be asked to “carry the water” for the opposition in perpetuity.

My suggestion is that the PAD narrow its focus and choose its battles to reduce the burden on resources. Its people continue to have a critical role to play in preventing the implosion of democracy.

PAD Pat 

Pattaya